Karachi has made headlines yet again, not for its vibrant culture or bustling markets, but as one of the least liveable cities in the world, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) Global Liveability Index for 2025. The city has slipped to an alarming 170th place out of 173 cities, a slight decline from last year’s 169th ranking. This persistent low ranking sheds light on the myriad of challenges Karachi faces, making it a hard place for many of its residents to call home.
The EIU’s assessment looks at critical factors such as healthcare, education, stability, infrastructure, and environmental conditions. These elements combine to create an overall picture of how livable a city truly is. This year, Copenhagen, the picturesque capital of Denmark, claimed the top spot, notable for its exceptional scores across stability, education, and infrastructure. It has dethroned Vienna, which held the title of the world’s most liveable city from 2022 to 2024.
In contrast to the tranquility and high standards of living epitomized by cities like Copenhagen, Karachi’s challenges are all too palpable for its inhabitants. From unreliable public services to compromised security, these issues have become daily hurdles that affect quality of life. Residents often juggle transportation woes, healthcare accessibility, and a myriad of other concerns that weigh heavily on their everyday experiences.
While Copenhagen basks in its top ranking, cities like Vienna and Zurich closely follow in second place, while Melbourne, Geneva, and Sydney round out the top six. Interestingly, Osaka makes a rare appearance as the only Asian city in the top ten, sharing the 7th spot with Auckland. Adelaide and Vancouver also make the list, illustrating a significant contrast in livability that highlights the struggles faced by residents of less privileged cities like Karachi.
Karachi stands alone as the only city from Pakistan represented in this index, which starkly emphasizes the ongoing issues related to infrastructure, public services, and a lack of security. This solitary position serves as a call to action not just for policymakers but for residents themselves, who navigate these challenges daily.
At the very bottom of the index, Damascus holds the 173rd rank, teetering above Tripoli at 172nd and Dhaka at 171st; the rankings provide a sobering perspective on global stability. The report points out a troubling trend of declining stability in regions across Western Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Additionally, it notes heightened tensions in Asia, driven by increasing risks of military conflict.
In a world where comfort and security are often taken for granted, the rankings serve as a reminder of the daily realities faced by many. While some cities offer a high quality of life characterized by stability and access to services, others, like Karachi, find themselves grappling with pressing challenges that demand urgent attention and action. As residents strive for a better future, the question remains: what steps can be taken to turn the tide and uplift the lives of those in one of the most populous cities in the world?
